John Mark Hirschi, a lifelong resident of Wichita Falls, passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 91. John devoted his life to building and serving the city he loved.

John was born October 7, 1933, to Gene Brite Hirschi and John Raymond Hirschi. He graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1952. Following high school, John attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where he received a Bachelor of Science in General Science in 1956.

John returned to Wichita Falls to begin his career in farming and ranching. He founded Hirschi Realtors in 1966, a company that played a vital role in shaping Wichita Falls' neighborhoods and commercial spaces. As president of the Wichita Falls Board of Realtors in 1970, John led with thoughtful determination. After selling the company in 1983, he turned his focus to public service and philanthropy through his formation of the Libra Foundation. He served as trustee from 1982 until his passing.

In 1987 and 1988, John served as a Councilor At Large on the Wichita Falls City Council. He worked to support the city's growth while prioritizing infrastructure improvements and making fiscally responsible decisions that benefited residents.

In 1991, John was elected as the Democratic state representative for Texas' 69th House District, serving until 1999. Over four terms, he focused on public health, education, environmental sustainability, and consumer protection, authoring and sponsoring more than 150 bills.

John championed legislation to increase transparency in the tobacco industry, reduce youth smoking, and expand access to preventative care. He prioritized education by reducing tuition costs for military personnel at Midwestern State University and supporting measures to make higher education accessible. His environmental initiatives promoted renewable energy, water conservation, and sustainable practices. John also worked to protect consumers, particularly the elderly, by advocating for stricter penalties for deceptive trade practices.

John's leadership extended to his role as chair of the Public Health Committee, as well as service on the Environmental Regulation, Elections, and Energy Resources Committees. His collaborative approach earned respect across party lines.

John's philanthropic efforts touched countless lives and strengthened many local nonprofits. He supported numerous environmental and cultural causes, including Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation, The Arts Council Wichita Falls, River Bend Nature Center, P.E.T.S., Sierra Club, Center for Biological Diversity, Doctors without Borders, and American Near East Refugee Aid to name a few.

In 2009, the Times Record News named John Wichitan of the Year, honoring his lifelong contributions to Wichita Falls. Yet, public recognition never defined him—he believed in giving back and doing what was right. Those who knew him remember his quiet generosity and sharp intellect.

In 2016, John brought his vision of sustainability to life with Fox Hill Restaurant and Garden. This passion project reflected his lifelong love of organic gardening.

John is preceded in death by his mother and father, his sister, Jean Ann Hirschi, and his late wife, Nancy Rapp Hirschi.

He is survived by his daughter, Joanna Hirschi Bonnheim of El Sobrante, California, and his wife, Beverly "Susie" Dickey of Electra, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask you make a donation to the Arts Council Wichita Falls, River Bend Nature Center, PETS Clinic, or a non-profit organization of your choosing.

A celebration of life will be held February 2, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at The Forum located at 2120 Speedway Ave, Wichita Falls, Texas 76308.